Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is a beautiful and historic city located in the south of Albania, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Many houses in Gjirokastër have a distinctive local style that has earned the city the nickname "City of Stone", because most of the old houses have roofs covered with flat dressed stones. The historic core of Gjirokastër was finally inscribed in 2005, 15 years after its original nomination. Gjirokastër Fortress dominates the town and overlooks the strategically important route along the river valley. It is open to visitors and contains a military museum. Today it possesses five towers and houses a clock tower, a church, water fountains, horse stables, and many more amenities. Gjirokastër features an old Ottoman bazaar which was originally built in the 17th century; it was rebuilt in the 19th century after a fire. There are more than 500 homes preserved as "cultural monuments" in Gjirokastër today. The Gjirokastër Mosque, built in 1757, dominates the bazaar.
Here are some of the things you can explore and experience in Gjirokastra:
Gjirokastra Castle: A massive fortress overlooking the town, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The castle has a museum inside and is home to the remains of a military history exhibition, including old weapons and equipment. It’s a great place for history enthusiasts.- Old Bazaar: The old town is full of charming cobbled streets, lined with traditional shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can get a feel for the old Ottoman influences and buy handcrafted goods, such as textiles, pottery, and souvenirs.
- The Ethnographic Museum: Housed in a beautiful old house once belonging to a wealthy family, the museum gives a deep insight into the traditional Albanian way of life, with artifacts and exhibits from various periods of the region’s history.
- Skenduli House: One of the best-preserved traditional houses in Gjirokastra, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of a prominent Ottoman-era family. You’ll see how the rooms are laid out and learn about the architecture and design of the time.
- Ismail Kadare House: One of Albania's most renowned writers and a key figure in world literature. While the house itself isn't formally a museum, it holds cultural significance.
- Zekate House: Another fascinating historical building that reflects the wealth and status of Gjirokastra’s residents in the 19th century. It’s noted for its unique architectural features.
- The City’s Architecture: The entire town is full of unique stone houses with distinctive silver-gray roofs, giving it the nickname “The City of Stone.” The houses are tiered up the mountainside, creating a stunning visual effect.
